Also they may not be aware that broadband is carried on the same line and is always on and does not require dialling to make a connection.

This means the phone line can be used at any time instead of being blocked for long periods while using the internet.

With broadband access rates falling it is now an affordable option and Telstra will enable local exchanges if the demand is there.

In Callala Bay the current interest shown is around 30 (the mininum is 75) and this may be just the tip of the iceberg as most may not realise the benefits.

If, for example, two dial-up calls a day are made to access internet the cost is around $10 a month plus internet provider charges.

With broadband available from under $20 a month at five times the speed and return to full phone use, the advantages are obvious.

If you want to talk about getting the demand up in your area and have any ideas of how this can be done, call Telstra on 1800 032 059.